Double digits is a big deal. Ten-year-olds have very strong opinions on what they like and what they don’t like – and they don’t tend to hold back about it. That’s why the best gifts for 10-year-olds should always tap into their interests in some way or other.Buying for tweens can be a bit of a challenge, but even if they like to think they’re grown-up, 10-year-olds still love anything silly, so fun games they can play with their friends will go down well. Anything that helps them flex their growing independence – while keeping them off screens – is a win/win, so look for more complicated builds, STEM kits or hands-on craft sets that will hold their interest and keep them busy.Exciting, age-appropriate tech gifts will always be a hit with 10-year-olds, as will anything that helps them get outside and burn off some energy. While these presents tend to be more expensive, they also have the potential to grow with your child so are often worth the investment.As an experienced parenting writer and a mum to my very own just-turned-10-year-old, I’ve picked out the best gifts for every budget, whether they’re into bikes, tween skincare, books or LEGO.Read more: Best kids’ headphones, testedI’ve covered all hobbies in this guide (Sarah Dawson/The Independent)The best gifts for 10-year-olds in 2026 are:Best overall – Laser X revolution laser tag double blasters set: £29.99, Smythstoys.comBest budget buy – Finn’s Epic Fails by Phil Earle, published by Simon & Schuster: £3.23, Amazon.co.ukBest STEM gift – Ambessa Play DIY kinetic flashlight: £45, Ambessaplay.comBest for music lovers – Zuru Mini Brands Really Works vinyl playset: £19.99, Amazon.co.ukRead more: Best paddling pools, tested